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The Karola Glacier is located at the border of Langkazi and Gyantse counties, 71 kilometers from Gyantse County. As one of Tibet's three largest continental glaciers, it's also the closest glacier to a highway in my country, allowing visitors to experience the ancient glacier up close.
This place was once the filming location for the movies "Red River Valley", "Battle of Gyantse" and "The Ballad of Yunshui". It is said that in 1996, in order to shoot a series of avalanche shots in the movie "Red River Valley" directed by Feng Xiaoning, explosives were used to blow a large gap in the Karola Glacier, leaving a scar that will never heal.
The dry and wet seasons are distinct. Summers have abundant and concentrated rainfall, and are warm and humid. Winters are dry and cold, with ample sunshine and strong solar radiation.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
40 yuan/person
9:00-17:00
Karola Glacier is a significant natural landmark in Tibet, known for its glacial formations and as a source of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. It holds ecological importance and attracts trekkers and nature enthusiasts exploring the Tibetan Plateau.
The glacier is located about 70 km from Shigatse, Tibet, along the Friendship Highway. Access is typically by private car or tour vehicle; local buses are limited. Walking and trekking are necessary to approach the glacier closely.
There are no official opening hours as it is a natural site. The best time to visit is from May to October when weather conditions are milder and trekking routes are safer.
There is no formal entrance fee; however, guided tours or transport services may charge fees. Booking is usually arranged offline via local tour operators.
For guided treks or transport services, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
Half a day to a full day is recommended for visiting Karola Glacier, depending on trekking distance and photography stops.
Guided tours are available through local operators, usually in Mandarin and sometimes English. Audio guides are uncommon.
Drive from Shigatse to the Karola Glacier parking area → Trek along marked paths for 1–2 hours to glacier viewpoints → Return to parking area and continue towards other local landmarks or Shigatse.
Night visits are not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of facilities. Special tours are mostly daytime trekking or photography trips.
The glacier is relatively quiet and not crowded. Weekdays during the shoulder season (May–June or September–October) have the fewest visitors.
Basic facilities are limited; there are few local rest areas or small shops near the highway. Carry your own water and snacks.
Accessibility is limited due to high altitude and trekking terrain. Elderly and children should be cautious, and disabled visitors may face difficulties.
Cash is recommended for local purchases; card and mobile payments are rarely accepted in this remote area.
Limited small roadside eateries near the highway or local Tibetan tea houses. Most meals are available in Shigatse before traveling.
Vegetarian options may be available at Tibetan tea houses; vegan and halal options are very limited.
Accommodations are mainly in Shigatse; there are few guesthouses along the highway. Lodging near the glacier itself is very basic.
Souvenir shops are mainly in Shigatse, offering Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, yak wool products, and traditional jewelry.
